FRENCH (FR)

Office: 228 B.B. Comer Hall

The course level at which students begin their study of French is determined by several factors. These factors include the following: the number of high-school units completed; language placement examination scores; or, for those with native or heritage competency, faculty evaluation.

Introduction to basic linguistic skills and communication in French. Emphasis on discussion and writing activities. Five hours of instruction per week. This course is the first semester of college-level study in French. Offered each semester.

Second semester of introductory French. Enhanced knowledge of basic linguistic skills with a focus on communicative proficiency. Increased emphasis on discussion and writing activities that focus on current issues in the French and Francophone world. Five hours of instruction per week. Offered each semester.

Introduction to literary and cultural analysis through selected works of French cultural expression. Emphasis on expanding vocabulary and improving grammar in order to develop speaking, reading, and writing proficiency beyond the second year. Usually offered in the fall semester. Study abroad equivalent: FR 328.

Contemporary French and Francophone society and culture. Continued work in literary and cultural analysis through selected works of recent cultural media (journalism, literature, music, film). Emphasis on written exposition, oral proficiency, critical thinking, grammar review. Usually offered in the spring semester.

Directed reading, research, or French Immersion Retreat. Offered according to demand, topic to be determined in consultation with the instructor. Recent topics have included: The French Short Story, The Art of Lascaux, and Franco-American relations. May be repeated for a maximum of 6 hours.

Intensive examination of a selected topic, with emphasis on student research and presentations. A representative sample of topics would include: Francophone Africa, The 19-Century French Novel, French-English Translation, and Poetry of the

Directed reading or research. Offered according to demand. Recent topics have included: Québécois Literature and Culture, 17th-Century French Literature, and The 20th-Century French Novel. May be repeated for a maximum of 12 hours.